That’s a tough situation for sure, and in my opinion sometimes inevitable because of various reasons (like hitting a deer with a vehicle or just shooting a little high and hitting the spine). While you did harvest the deer you can look at as a testament to these amazing animal's will to live. They survive harsh winters with little food and predators, not to mention all of US!!! Congrats on the kill, but I hope your next experience is a more satisfying one for you, and tell your friends not to base their future in the sport on this, especially since it wasn't easy for any of you.